Beta Glucan

Beta Glucan

Beta Glucan  is a nutrient derived from the soluble fiber of plant cell walls, including cellular walls of yeast, fungi, algae and bacteria. However, beta glucan, for dietary use, is mainly obtained from grain and yeast. ^[1]–[3] Beta glucan is a fiber-type complex sugar (polysaccharide). As a nutritional dietary supplement, beta-glucan is available in liquid form as well as in capsules and tablets.

Benefits of Beta Glucan

• Based on the available evidence, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) concluded that consuming whole grain barley and dry milled barley products that provide at least 3 grams of beta-glucan soluble fiber per day, is effective in lowering blood total and LDL cholesterol.
• Beta glucan is also a powerful antioxidant, which boosts the performance of the immune system
• Beta glucan is also recognized as being helpful in regulating the level of glucose sugar in the blood.
• In addition, beta glucan has been indicated for healing burns and assisting in the decrease of scar visibility.
• Similar properties have been shown for beta-glucan-rich extracts and purified beta-glucan derived from oats, baker's yeast, and mushrooms.

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Additional Information

How Does Beta Glucan Fight High Cholesterol?

Beta Glucan is found to coat the digestive tract and therefore, unlike starches or proteins, is not digested but instead converted to a gel. Fat and carbohydrates are trapped in the gel produced by beta glucan, which, in turn, acts to regulate the absorption rate of nutrients. In this process, cholesterol also becomes trapped and is ultimately flushed out of the system.

Side Effects of Beta Glucan

Diabetics are Advised Against Using Beta Glucan. Beta glucan is classified under the FDA's listing of GRAS nutrients or Generally Regarded as Safe in the United States. However, diabetics are cautioned about using the supplement as any products that regulate blood sugar can have harmful consequences when taken by anyone with diabetes. ^[1]–[3]

Other Recommended Precautions

Beta Glucan has not been shown to create any significant adverse reactions in healthy individuals. However, it is not suggested for use by anyone who is allergic to beta glucan or for individuals suffering from Aids related complex (ARC) or Aids. In addition, it is not recommended for use by women who are pregnant or lactating. Studies have not yet established conclusive proof that the supplement is totally safe for use by the aforementioned group. ^[1]–[3]

Beta glucan should not be used with aspirin or other similar non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). ^[1]–[3]

Beta Glucan Dosage

For lowering HDL cholesterol and hypertension, a quantity between 3 to 16 grams is often suggested. The usual recommendation, however, for healthy individuals is about 5 ½ grams per day. The supplements is not approved for children under 18 years of age as no dosage for this age group has yet to be proven safe and effective. ^[1]–[3]